Prompt: Identify a current global event and briefly explain how two different theories (e.g., Realism and Liberalism) would interpret its causes differently.
Week 2: Theories & Democracy
Prompt: How do critical perspectives challenge the traditional liberal democratic consensus? Which theory best explains the current state of global democracy?
Week 3: Is (US) Liberal Democracy the Best form of Government?
Prompt: Based on this week's readings, why has liberal democracy become increasingly unpopular globally?
Week 4: Is (US) Liberal Democracy the Best form of Government?
Prompt: Analyze the rise of competitive authoritarianism. What weaknesses in liberal democracy do these regimes exploit?
Week 5: Is there an alternative to capitalism?
Prompt: What is the strongest argument for an authoritarian capitalist model, and how does traditional capitalism respond to it?
Week 6: Is there an alternative to capitalism?
Prompt: Compare the critique of capitalism (socialism) with social democracy. Which offers a more viable alternative for the 21st century?
Week 7: Is Globalization Good for Humanity?
Prompt: Who have been the primary winners and losers of globalization so far?
Week 8: Is Globalization Good for Humanity?
Prompt: Does the 'Clash of Civilizations' thesis accurately describe post-Cold War globalization, or is it a flawed framework?
Week 9: Is Nationalism Bad for Humanity?
Prompt: How does nationalism conflict with internationalism in today's global institutions?
Week 10: Is Nationalism Bad for Humanity?
Prompt: Apply the 'Tragedy of Great Power Politics' to a current geopolitical conflict.
Week 11: Is Nationalism Bad for Humanity?
Prompt: If we were to 'rethink the nation-state,' what alternative structures of global governance might emerge?
Week 12: Is AI a Threat to the International Order?
Prompt: Does techno-optimism underestimate the disruptive potential of AI on the global stage?
Week 13: Is AI a Threat to the International Order?
Prompt: How does the tech competition with China parallel previous arms races?
Week 14: Is AI a Threat to the International Order?
Prompt: Explain the geopolitical significance of semiconductor chips in the global balance of power.
Week 15: Is AI a Threat to the International Order?
Prompt: How might AGI and the militarization of AI fundamentally alter the international order?